Small Business Marketing

How to Utilize Social Networks for Business Referrals

Written by Mac Cassity for Gaebler Ventures

Social Networking is not going anywhere and by all indications, it is becoming more and more popular each and every day. Companies that learn how to effectively market using social networks are getting in front of millions of potential prospects for less money than just about any other marketing method in existence. This article will give you solid, easy to follow techniques to help you begin using social networking as one of the foundational marketing tools for your business.

Social Networking can be a fantastic way to build your business…OR, it can be a tremendous waste of your time…it all depends on how you go about it.
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The fact is, there are hundreds of millions of people all over the world who spend time on social networks each and every week so chances are, the prospects you are looking for are there. Your job is to utilize social networking effectively to meet those prospects and convert them into clients.

Below is a simple checklist to help you understand exactly how to use social networks to help effectively market your business.

Define your market, THEN decide which networks to join

In case you haven't noticed, there are hundreds if not thousands of social networks that have sprung up on subjects of just about anything you could think of. Make sure that the networks you choose to be a member of feature your target market as the core audience. If not, you may end up wasting valuable time trying to convert members who are uninterested in what you have to offer. For instance, if you are looking for business owners, you might do better on Linked In or Perfect Networker than on Facebook. Sure, there are plenty of business owners on Facebook, but the other networks mentioned are comprised SOLELY of business owners. Target your market and save valuable time.

Your profile is your billboard…make it work for you, not against you!

Many people still think they will benefit by putting their name, website address, and what they do on a profile and then never visiting the site again. Here's a little tip…IT DOESN'T WORK! Your profile has to really sell why someone would want to get to know you and maybe learn more about your business.

If you met someone at a networking event, would you just say your name, your business name, and give your website address? Of course you wouldn't! You would tell more about YOU…what you like, don't like, your family, etc. Pretend you are talking to someone you just met when filling out your profile and you will be closer to hitting the mark here.

Interaction is the key, get INVOLVED in the network

The more people see your name and face floating around a particular social network, the more likely it is they will get to know you. Take some time to welcome new members, get to know the well established ones. Comment on posts and truly INTERACT. This interaction is the key to building relationships which is what is most important when looking to market your business using social networks.

Take advantage of all the resources offered

Social Networks often offer an incredible array of features that you can use to your advantage to market your business. From free blogs, to classified ads, banner advertising, event posting, and more. Learn what resources are available to you and use them on a regular basis. Even if there is a small fee to do so, using these features can often be incredibly cost effective because you basically have a captive audience with the membership base of the network.

By taking advantage of all the tips above, you can be a superstar on any social network. You can build relationships and get your business out there and develop prospects and eventually clients. It can take some time, but when done correctly, utilizing social networks to market your business can be a fantastic and cost effective way to add to your bottom line.

Mac Cassity is an entrepreneur and business person. Mac began writing professionally when he was twelve years old for a comic book collecting publication. Today, he has experience in insurance agency management and runs his own freelance writing business, Mac the Knife Articles.

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